B-Complex vitamins are one of the most natural ways to relieve the pain caused by some conditions such as Lumbago, Sciatica, Costochondritis, Trigeminal Neuralgia, Optic Neuritis and Facial Paralysis. When we say "natural", we mean vitamins and supplements that are available over the counter in pharmacies and online stores.
This vitamin complex is composed of Thiamine (B1), Riboflavin (B2), Niacin (B3), Pantothenic Acid (B5), Pyridoxine (B6), Biotin (B7), Folic Acid (B9) and Cobalamins (B12). Usually these vitamins come combined with Vitamin E, C, and D in the same package.
How do these vitamins help to relieve pain?
It is proven by several clinical studies that B-Complex helps with chronic pain. Especially where the affected area is sensitive to physical movement. B vitamins help relieve pain while damaged muscle or tissue fully recovers.
The main function of B vitamins is to block pain signals that are sent by damaged nerves to the spine. In this way the pain is considerably reduced to the point of disappearing for days or weeks.
What do I do if my condition is permanent?
Chronic pain usually lasts much longer than normal. Chronic pain, to be categorized as such, must last for three months or more. In some people it lasts for years or a lifetime. If your condition causes you long-term pain, it is best to combine B-Complex with other pain relievers such as Diclofenac or Ibuprofen. It all depends on what your doctor says.
How much B-Complex should I take to relieve my pain?
At the Southern University of Science and Technology, Professor Xue-Jun Song, MD, PhD (Director of the Center for Pain Medicine) indicates that the best dose is two 500mg tablets of B vitamins per day. With that dose it is possible to obtain a quick result against pain.
Results may vary from person to person. For example, for people who are recently experiencing pain from an injury, the B-Complex will work faster and longer. In other people, the effect may last only 12 hours or less.
Ally against neuropathy
Several investigations indicate the benefits of B-Complex against neuropathy. B vitamins help people fight nerve damage effectively. These types of conditions cause numbness, pain and a strange sensation in the extremities of the body.
Foods with B vitamins
To increase the dose of B vitamins in the body, it is good to combine the intake of tablets with foods that contain any of the vitamins mentioned above. Some of the most common are:
- Legumes (B1, B2, B5, B6): Black Beans, Garbanzo, Green Soybeans, Green Peas, Kidney Beans, Lentils, Pinto beans, Roasted Soy Nuts.
- Chicken-Turkey (B2, B3, B5, B6, B12): Breast 100gr skinless well cooked.
- Yogurt (B2, B12): It depends on the brand and if the product is non-dairy. If you are on "diet-only” products, avoid buying it unless it specifies that it contains B vitamins. Be careful with added sugar brands.
- Pork (B1, B2, B3, B5, B6, B12): 100gr fat free slices are the best to eat and get all the B’s.
- Cereal & Supplements: Many breakfast cereals include a long list of B vitamins. Supplements like protein powder are rich in nutrients and vitamins.
Where to buy B-Complex?
Online stores are the most common place to get B vitamins, and specialty vitamin/supplement stores are a great option to purchase in your local area. They are usually available in any pharmacy or supermarket as well. Look for a name brand that has been on the market awhile. A bottle of 150 tablets has an approximate cost of $20 dollars.